MA[T.]HAVYA. [Aside.

And so, I suppose, I must stand here to be devoured by hunger, whilst he goes on in this sentimental strain.

KING.

O forsaken one, unjustly banished from my presence, take pity on thy slave, whose heart is consumed by the fire of remorse, and return to my sight.

Enter CHATURIKA hurriedly, with a picture in her hand.

CHATURIKA.

Here is the Queen’s portrait.

[Shows the picture.

MA[T.]HAVYA.

Excellent, my dear friend, excellent!  The imitation of nature is perfect, and the attitude of the figures is really charming.  They stand out in such bold relief that the eye is quite deceived.

SANUMATI. [Aside.

A most artistic performance!  I admire the King’s skill, and could almost believe that [S’]akoontala herself was before me.

KING.

  I own ’tis not amiss, though it portrays
  But feebly her angelic loveliness. 
  Aught less than perfect is depicted falsely,
  And fancy must supply the imperfection.

SANUMATI. [Aside.

A very just remark from a modest man, whose affection is exaggerated by the keenness of his remorse.

MA[T.]HAVYA.

Tell me:—­I see three female figures drawn on the canvas, and all of them beautiful; which of the three is her Majesty [S’]akoontala?

SANUMATI. [Aside.

If he cannot distinguish her from the others, the simpleton might as well have no eyes in his head.

KING.

Which should you imagine to be intended for her?

MA[T.]HAVYA.

She who is leaning, apparently a little tired, against the stem of that mango-tree, the tender leaves of which glitter with the water she has poured upon them.  Her arms are gracefully extended; her face is somewhat flushed with the heat; and a few flowers have escaped from her hair, which has become unfastened, and hangs in loose tresses about her neck.  That must be the queen [S’]akoontala, and the others, I presume, are her two attendants.

KING.

I congratulate you on your discernment.  Behold the proof of my passion;

  My finger, burning with the glow of love[93],
  Has left its impress on the painted tablet;
  While here and there, alas! a scalding tear
  Has fallen on the cheek and dimmed its brightness.

Chaturika, the garden in the background of the picture is only half-painted.  Go, fetch the brush that I may finish it.

CHATURIKA.

Worthy Ma[t.]havya, have the kindness to hold the picture until I return.

KING.

Nay, I will hold it myself.

[Takes the picture.